Drinking skills : milk, cassava beer, kava, palm wine, tea, rice beer

Abstract

Drinking is one of the most basic human needs. However, the act of drinking encompasses much more than just quenching one’s thirst. This publication complements the ‘Drinking Skills’ exhibition at the Ethnographic Museum at the University of Zurich. It illustrates the important cultural role that drinking has by describing some characteristic beverages from around the world. The authors clearly explain the different ways these drinks are prepared, shared, and consumed, and their inherent social power. Two sommeliers contribute brief descriptions of the beverages which Western palates are not accustomed to – an invitation to the readers to enjoy this book with all their senses.